Sangita:My mom. She Believed in me. Never
gave up on me and never let me feel lesser because of my hand. Since my
father was busy with work, she raised us 3 children all alone in Mumbai, a new
city for us. She is extremely determined. I remember she wanted to drive
as that would help her manage the kids. Back in the day in 1974, she went out
all alone and voila in 10 days she was driving us around. The One
thing that I learned from her which has held me in good stead, is believe in
the power of self.

ST: How are you celebrating this
year’s International Women’s Day?

Sangita: This year my mom turns 84. I intend
to spend the better part of my day with
her for both, my selfish reasons to be with her and also thank her for being by
my side throughout and making me what I am today. I
am because of her.

ST: What is the most important
message you want to send out to all the women around the world on this
occasion?

Sangita: To balance the equation of
life, we need to have a good sleep. This can only happen if we are content and
happy. So do what you love the most. Make
it your life. You will sleep well. And adopt a dog.

ST: What according to you is ‘women
empowerment’?

Sangita: I dont wish to address this question as a social
change topic. I believe is has to come with within. one has to FEEL empowered
and no one can do it for me. Empowerment is knowledge. Knowledge
that you are truly a unique individual and you matter. Knowledge that you
can handle any adversity that life throws at you. Knowledge that you can
love with abandon and live with what you loose. Its actually about
ACCEPTING this and the day you do, you will be empowered.

ST: What would you say are the main
challenges facing women at present in India?

Sangita: Again this challenge is internal. There are many
women who in the face of male dominated adversities have shone. And they
were able to do it is because they believe in self. So I would say that
the biggest challenge we women face is the Inability
to respect ourselves. Whilst its our nature to give, there is a thin line
between giving and the sense of sacrifice. The latter is subservient. We need
to put ourselves and our dignity right on the top of our value system and make
sure that is understood by everyone within our own personal ecosystem.

ST: Where do
you want to see yourself in next 5 years?

Sangita: We started out with RawNature about
a year back. This is my swan song and my whole hearted love affair. In the next
five years, I believe we will be at the helm of Men’s Grooming in India
and overseas and I would like to be seen as that Women who bought about
this SAFE grooming haven to Men across the world.